About Us

Oxford Centre of Theravāda Buddhism

Nisammakārī – A disciplined mind brings you wisdom

The Oxford Buddhist Society was established to preserve and share the teachings and practices of Theravāda Buddhism for the benefit and well-being of humanity. Our guiding theme, Nisammakārī, comes from the Milindapañhapāḷi (The Questions of King Milinda) in the Khuddakanikāya. The term refers to acting with careful reflection and consideration. Such a disciplined and mindful approach creates the conditions for a calm, peaceful, and balanced mind that leads to wisdom.

Cultivating the Mind

The society places special emphasis on Bhāvanā — the cultivation of mental development.

Guided by the teachings of Satipaṭṭhāna (The Foundations of Mindfulness), we support monks and lay practitioners in reducing suffering caused by Taṇhā – craving or desire, Dosa – ill-will or hatred and Moha – ignorance or delusion.

To support this path of cultivation, we offer a variety of activities throughout the year, including:

  • Guided meditation sessions
  • Chanting and devotional practices
  • Round-table discussions and open forums
  • Buddhist study and reflection
  • Short-term and long-term retreats

A Global Invitation

We warmly invite people from all backgrounds and cultures who seek peace, understanding, and enlightenment in life. Inspired by the Buddhist qualities of: Loving-kindness (mettā), Compassion (karuṇā), Altruistic joy (muditā), Equanimity (upekkhā).

we hope to contribute to a world where humanity radiates peace, wisdom, and harmony.

All programmes are guided by: Monastic monks, Experienced practitioners and Researchers and scholars. The Management Committee supports the organisation and administration of the society, ensuring that its mission and activities can continue to benefit the community.

Our Vision

The Oxford Buddhist Society was founded to preserve the Theravāda Buddhist tradition and philosophical teachings that have been transmitted since the time of the Buddha (c. 564 BC), while presenting them within the context of modern British society.

Our vision is:

  • To provide a supportive environment where people can cultivate moral conduct (sīla), mental concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā) in everyday life.
  • To create a platform for learning, practising, and researching Buddhist teachings for deeper understanding and spiritual well-being.
  • To offer regular Bhāvanā and mindfulness meditation programmes that support mental clarity, stability, and insight.
  • To help people facing challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, and frustration through the cultivation of the mind.
  • To act as a Kalyāṇa-mitta (spiritual friend) to humanity, sharing the Buddha’s message of peace and wisdom.

Management Committee

Rev Wadigala Samitharathana

Founding President

Mr Lasantha Jayathilake

Secretary

Ms Priyanga Nugegodage

Treasurer

Dr Dimuthu Weerasuriya

Trustee

Mr Tilak Dilhan Anthony

Trustee

A Charitable Organisation

The Oxford Buddhist Society is funded entirely through voluntary donations and is registered in the United Kingdom as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). Our aim is to ensure that Buddhist teachings and meditation practices remain accessible to everyone.

Formalised in 2023.

UK Registered Charity No. 1204856